Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

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Alternative Names

Lifestyle Changes

The following are some tips for maintaining a healthy diet:

• Cultivate a diet low in saturated fats. Not all fats are unhealthy however. Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids, which are fat compounds found in fish oil, black currant or primrose seed oils, and flax seed, have anti-inflammatory and nerve protecting actions.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found plentifully in oily fish and flaxseed and canola oils, are beneficial to people afflicted with IBD (inflammatory bowel disease).

• Choose whole grains and fresh vegetables and fruits. According to some studies, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can lower homocysteine levels, which are elevated in SLE patients and may be a risk factor for heart disease. Researchers are also investigating compounds called indoles, also known as mustard oil, which are found in broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, collard and mustard greens, rutabaga, turnips, and bok choy. Indoles stimulate enzymes that convert estrogen to a more benign type. Eating vegetables certainly will not cure SLE, but they offer many health benefits in general.
• Obtain most proteins from vegetables, particularly soy, and avoiding dairy and meat products may help protect the kidneys.
• Take extra calcium and vitamin D (this is particularly useful for patients taking corticosteroids).
• Supplements of vitamins B12, B6, and folate may be necessary, especially in people whose blood tests show high levels of homocysteine.
• Exercise is safe, but patients should not expect it to improve symptoms, including joint aches and fatigue.
• Restrict salt (particularly patients with signs of hypertension and kidney disease).

Of possible interest to SLE patients is a 2002 report that patients with rheumatoid arthritis (also an inflammatory autoimmune condition) experienced improvement when they went on the Mediterranean diet, which stresses fish (which contains anti-inflammatory factors), olive oil, garlic, whole grains, nuts, and fresh fruits and vegetables. In any case, such a diet is heart-healthy, which is important for SLE patients.

Prevention Against Infections

Patients should minimize their exposure to crowds or people with contagious illnesses. Careful hygiene, including dental hygiene, is also important.

Avoiding SLE Triggers

Simple preventive measures include avoiding overexposure to ultraviolet rays and wearing protective clothing and sunblocks. There is some concern that allergy shots may cause flare ups in certain cases. Patients who may benefit from them should discuss risks and benefits with an SLE specialist. In general, SLE patients should use only hypoallergenic cosmetics or hair products.

Reducing Stress

Chronic stress has profound physical effects and influences the progression of SLE. According to one 1999 study, SLE patients differ from healthy individuals in their immune responses to stress, and psychological stress can induce flare-ups in SLE patients. Patients should try to avoid undue emotional or physical stress. Getting adequate rest of at least eight hours and possibly napping during the day may be helpful. Maintaining social relationships and healthy activities helps prevent the depression and anxiety associated with the disease.